Project Overview

Project Mission:

To enhance engagement with vulnerable communities in Cambodia to improve their quality of life and increase exposure and understanding of Cambodian history and culture among program participants and their communities.

Project Opportunities:

Community in Cambodia

To increase global awareness and understanding of local community issues in Cambodia

To educate and train Cambodian youth in transferable skills that generate income

Provide support services and information on basic healthcare and hygiene to Cambodian families

Personal

Offer opportunities for life-changing and transformative experiences that expand and diversify cultural lenses

Organizational

Provide a platform for global service learning opportunities and connect like-minded individuals

To contribute in building human resources and sustainability of local communities

Assist in development of the Cambodia YMCA and their programs

What to Expect:

The YMCA Cambodia project is a collaborative project between the Cambodia YMCA, YMCA of Greater Long Beach, Community Development Branch and local and international partners. A Cambodia Journey is a global service learning project that seeks to promote the cultural and historical understanding of Cambodia by providing opportunities that culminate in an immersive two week trip through Cambodia.

A Cambodia Journey is an annual program that is much more than a two week trip to Cambodia. Before leaving to Cambodia, participants will do outreach activities that promote awareness of Cambodian issues, fundraise, learn basic Khmer, and seek to build partnerships in their local communities to support their personal journey.

The total cost of the trip to Cambodia is roughly $3,500. There are many costs associated with organizing an international trip with 25 people. There are transportation fares, meals, lodging costs, insurance for all participants, and sizable donations are made to the Cambodia YMCA Street Children’s Project, Khmer Loves Khmer Association and Little Angel’s Orphanage.

There are staffing costs incurred for the program to take place; It takes time, energy and resources to plan and conduct A Cambodia Journey. Participant costs help cover fees for staff transportation, meals and lodging while on the trip. Non-YMCA staff are also paid a $2,000 stipend for their year-long commitment and time planning, coordinating and staffing the trip.

What your cost covers:

All meals in Cambodia including during the Team Building Trainings that take place in Long Beach, CA (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner). Meals are not covered if you decide to go out on your own from the group during scheduled meals.

All hotel costs for the duration of the trip and in Long Beach, CA during Team Building Trainings.

Transportation to all scheduled activities while in Cambodia.

Visa entrance fees into Cambodia.

Travel Insurance for the duration of scheduled activities in Cambodia.

About the YMCA Cambodia Project

To enhance engagement with vulnerable communities in Cambodia to improve their quality of life and increase exposure and understanding of Cambodian history and culture among program participants and their communities.